Office of Governor Gary Locke
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - November 9, 1998
Contact:  Governor's Communications Office, 360-902-4136

Locke names Fred Stephens to head Department of Licensing

OLYMPIA — Gov. Gary Locke today chose Fred Stephens, his deputy chief of staff, to become the new director of the Washington Department of Licensing. Stephens replaces Evelyn Yenson, who is leaving state employment to join a private company in Atlanta.

Locke said his choice for the new agency head reflects Stephens' commitment to improving state government.

"I've known Fred for several years, and I know the caliber of his work and the depth of his commitment to public service," Locke said. "Fred will bring his years of experience in reinventing government to continually improve customer service."

Stephens, of Puyallup, said he looks forward to the new challenge at DOL.

"I see this move as an opportunity to make a contribution at the agency level," Stephens said. "I will focus on ensuring a high level of satisfaction among DOL employees while making sure we offer exemplary service to all our citizens."

Hired as Locke's deputy chief of staff in January 1997, Stephens has been responsible for overseeing 29 small agencies in the governor's cabinet. He has led the development and implementation of Locke's two executive orders on regulatory reform and quality improvement. He also oversees tribal issues and governor's office personnel and fiscal matters.

Before joining the governor's staff, Stephens was director of the King County Department of Executive Administration, a new department developed under the consolidation of King County government and the Municipality of Metropolitan Seattle under Locke as King County Executive. Stephens worked on a variety of high-profile issues, including the merger of King County government and the Municipality of Metropolitan Seattle. He developed and implemented the county's five-year technology strategic capital plan and redesigned its technological environment. He also established the Information Resources Council and developed the county's customer service center.

Stephens worked for former Gov. Booth Gardner as a special assistant for management services and served as assistant secretary of the state Department of Social and Health Services.Stephens served as deputy director for the Department of Human Services for the mayor's office in Los Angeles. He has private sector experience as well, having worked for Hewlett-Packard Corp. and for Xerox Corp.

Stephens graduated from Yale University in 1972 with a master's degree in theology. He earned his bachelor's degree from Wilberforce University in Ohio in 1969, majoring in economics and sociology.

Stephens, 50, will assume his new role at DOL Dec. 18. The position carries an annual salary of $96,469.

The Department of Licensing is responsible for licensing, setting standards and enforcing regulations for nearly 30 professions and occupations within the state. It also administers the motor vehicle laws of the state, including driver licensing and control.

» Return to this month's News Releases

» View News Release Archive